AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY PRESENTS HOPE BALL @ HOME THIS SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020  

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/26/20

Annual Gala Benefiting Childhood Cancer Research Goes Virtual; Honors Arthur Blank  

 

This year, Atlanta’s social and corporate communities will gather virtually for American Cancer Society’s signature fundraising event, the Hope Ball gala.  Presented by Delta Air Lines  on Saturday, August 29, at 7 p.m., the Hope Ball @ Home will stream live on the American Cancer Society’s YouTube channel at  www.youtube.com/AmerCancerSociety.   Mike Moore, senior vice president, Maintenance Operations at Delta TechOps, returns as 2020 Hope Ball chair and Latanza Adjei, sales vice president at Georgia Power Company and Ken McCue, vice president, Delta Air Lines, and president, Delta Material Services, will co-chair the event. The hour-long live stream will feature stories of hope, special guests, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. 
“Like many nonprofits, the American Cancer Society has had to cancel all its face-to-face fundraising events, putting millions of research and patient program dollars at risk,” says Brant Woodward, executive vice president for the American Cancer Society Southeast Region.  “Postponed events, coupled with a dramatic dip in charitable donations, have led to a revenue shortfall no one could have predicted.  Despite the daunting circumstances, the mission of the American Cancer Society must continue.”
Among the event’s highlights: 
• Fred Blankenship & Linda Stouffer, WSB-TV Channel 2 Action News morning anchors, will emcee.

• Best known as co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta UnitedFC, Arthur Blank will be presented with the 2020 Hope Award. Blank, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2015, is an advocate for men’s health and early detection of the disease.

• NFL Player’s Choir performs “This Little Light of Mine”

• Mission Moment will feature Jenn Hobby,  who shares the cancer journey of her young daughter Reese, along with pediatric cancer researcher Dr. Ryan Summers, who works in the laboratory of ACS grant-funded researcher Dr. Douglas Graham at Emory Winship Cancer Institute.

• Mixology break with Mercedes O’Brien, former cocktail director at Atlanta’s Gunshow restaurant and founder of Sippn’ at Home, a cocktail kit service. Mercedes will demonstrate how to make “Helen’s Hope” in honor of her grandmother who passed away from breast cancer.
• Experience a gala dinner from the comfort of home as Southern Belle’s Chef Joey Ward serves up a delicious to-go feast. Order for Friday or Saturday pick-up. A portion of proceeds benefits ACS.

• Auctioneer Magen McRoberts will conduct an actual live auction. Five live auction items include East Lake Golf Club & PGA Superstore experience, Delta Air Lines getaway, Blalock Farms Hunting & Sporting escape, Silversea luxury cruise, and a dinner at the St. Regis for 12.

• PK in the Morning show featuring PK, Denise, Duryan, and DJ Babey Drew from Power 96.1 will host the Hope Ball at Home after party.
 
Up to and on event night, funds raised during the Hope Ball Mission Moment will support childhood cancer research in partnership with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. After accidents, childhood cancer is the second leading cause of death in children, and the leading disease-related cause of death for children ages 1 to 19. 
“We are pleased to be a part of the 2020 Hope Ball @ Home honoring Arthur Blank and supporting the American Cancer Society and St. Baldrick’s Foundation,” says Mike Moore.  “During this difficult time, our gifts are more important than ever.  We hope to have record numbers of people join us and virtually raise their hands to donate to the fight against childhood cancer.”
“The generosity and ongoing support of Delta Air Lines through the coronavirus pandemic speaks to their commitment to our mission of saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer,”  Woodward says. “Never before in ACS’s 107-year history has the mission been more at risk than it is now however, with the support of Delta and all our wonderful partners, we have been able to pivot and devise a plan for how we engage and serve communities with a greater focus on digital connections like we’re doing with Hope Ball @ Home.  With courage, determination, and some innovation, the mission will not stop on our watch.”

 

A live and silent auction featuring travel packages, jewelry, sports collector’s items, and spa packages is now open for bidding at https://atlhopeball2020.ggo.bid/bidding/package-browse.  For more information, visit www.hopeball.org.  

Carson Kitchen: Resting Brunch Face

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/25/20

We were thinking and someday we will look back fondly upon our time as Adventures in Atlanta, where we reviewed food, went to breweries, and promoted events. With that, we’re sure Carson Kitchen will definitely stick out as one of the best of those experiences because they have phenomenal food, some of the nicest and amazing staff around, and a killer drink menu. Now, they have brunch, could it get any better? We figure not, but we sampled our way through a few of the brunch menu options like the amazing Spam Benedict, savory Chicken and Waffles and Oxtail Hash, sublime Avocado Toast, and don’t get us started on their brunch cocktails. Their slogan Resting Brunch Face is spot on. Hitting it out of the park once again with so many unique flavor combinations, textures, and stellar brunch fare. Spam Benedict, anyone?

When we tell you, we’ve found our brunch bff drink, you know it must be good. The Alexa Play, “Georgia Peaches” is fresh, crisp, sweet, yet mellow. If I (Liz) could have one drink the rest of my  life, it would be this beauty with the right mix of champagne and peach puree. Plus, we know they said this was their take on a Bellini but never had a Bellini so refreshing and crisp. Do they make this puree in house? I mean, they have to! We also REALLY liked the Tangled up in Blue. It was a crisp and refreshing vodka cocktail with blueberry puree that was sweet and tart that mixed perfectly with the ginger beer and lemon.

Right now they’re doing a limited brunch menu with fun dishes like a dynamite Spam Benedict or savory Oxtail Hash, as well as a Pork Belly, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich, Chicken and MAC-N-CHEESE (yes all caps) Waffle, Avocado (and cheese) Toast, and so many other little bites. How did we get so lucky? Starting with the Chicken and Waffles, it was a savory waffle dish with mac and cheese literally baked into the waffle dough with crispy chicken on top. Adorned with a drizzle of a good amount of cheddar cheese sauce, so as you eat it you get the crisp of the chicken and savory of the waffle and macaroni mix. It was like a fun take on mac n cheese. The only thing we’d like to see is a little sweet, like maybe some honey or something sweet that pairs with the cheese on top. Still delicious.

Let’s discuss Avocado Toast. You know, this can be so healthy, but why not try something different? With the perfectly cooked egg, avocado, and a little bit of beer cheese with a sharp bite, this Avocado Toast is crunchy, creamy, earthy, and unforgettable. With the toast, we also decided to sample the Oxtail Hash. If you haven’t had oxtail what are you waiting for? It’s a lot like pulled pork, but it’s a little richer and has a little more flavor than a regular pulled pork. Then you pile on the potatoes, onions, and peppers it rounds out the dish. You can’t get a hash without the egg, and this one was a beauty that was perfectly cooked, and the yolk ran through the potatoes and oxtail to create a savory sauce. Yum.

Of the brunch fare, our favorite had to be the Spam Benedict. They were out in our brunch initial visit and we couldn’t stop thinking about trying it so we went back. WORTH IT. Boy, we’re glad we did with the perfectly cooked and meaty spam, topped with a savory egg and the right amount of cheese, it was an amazing bite. But you know what was the showstopper? The fried green tomato. It was perfectly crisp and ripe and instead of bread held the entire dish together. Just imagine a crispy, crunchy, and earthy tomato topped with pork spam perfectly pan fried and topped with sauce and a gooey, runny egg. Cut up all the ingredients and mix it up, bite. Heavenly.

On August 26th, Carson Kitchen is expanding their hours and menu with even more bites to choose from like everything bagel flatbread to German potato salad to a pork tenderloin. Chicken thighs are still on our list to try, plus we can’t say no to pork tenderloin or everything bagel flatbread. What would you want to try first?

SUMMER SIPPIN’ ROSWELL 2020

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/24/20

Runs August 1 to September 30

50 Participating Restaurants and Sips here.

Summer Sippin’ Roswell, a two-month beverage competition that typically occurs from June through July, will take place this year from August 1 through September 30. This event was created in 2016 as an industry support program by Roswell Inc, the city’s economic development organization, and in the event’s fifth year, more than 50 restaurants are competing to have their drink crowned ‘ Best Sip in Roswell’ 2020.

“With new safety standards and carryout options, Summer Sippin’ is a great way for our community to safely celebrate the end of summer and support our local food and beverage industry, which has felt the tremendous impact of COVID-19,” said Steve Stroud, executive director of Roswell Inc. To ensure the health and wellbeing of both our businesses and patrons, all participating restaurants will implement the following 5 ‘Sip Safely Standards’, which are in direct alignment with guidance provided by the State of Georgia, City of Roswell and CDC:

● Clean Restaurants Tabletops will be cleaned between diners, and entire facilities will be thoroughly and regularly cleaned, focusing on high-traffic areas.
● Wearing Masks. Employees will follow face-covering guidance per state and local ordinances.
● Frequent Hand Washing. Employees are trained on the importance and expectation of increased frequency of handwashing.
● Physical Distancing. Restaurants will comply with capacity and physical-distancing requirements in accordance with
state and local guidelines.
● Carryout & Delivery. Where possible, restaurants will offer carryout, curbside or delivery options.

Furthermore, the majority of participating restaurants will offer a carryout drink option in addition to serving their cocktail in-house, allowing patrons to participate in whichever way they choose. Carryout drink options include mocktails that can be “spiked” at home, DIY cocktail kits and hand-crafted cocktail mixes. During the two-month event, patrons are encouraged to order sips from participating restaurants, and then rate each sip they try on the Summer Sippin’ app or at SummerSippin.com. At the end of the event, based on the drink ratings, one alcoholic and one non-alcoholic drink will each win the title of ‘Best Sip in Roswell’ 2020. Patrons can also share their sippin’ experiences during the event using the hashtags #SipSafelyRoswell and #SummerSippin2020.

Participating restaurants for 2020 include: 1920 Tavern, Adele’s on Canton, Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, Bayou’Q, Big Oak Tavern, Brookwood Grill, Bruster’s Ice Cream, Café Lucia, Canton Street Beer Market, Ceviche Taqueria, Chipper’s Pub, Crazy Love Coffee House, Deep Roots Wine Market, Fellows Cafe, Fickle Pickle, Flying Biscuit Café, Foundation Social Eatery, Fresco Cantina Grille, From the Earth Brewing Company, Gate City Brewing, Gracious Plenty, HOLA! Taqueria & Bar, Houck’s Grille, Huh Natural & Real Food, Ipp’s on Canton Street, Johnny’s Pizza, Local on North – Roswell, Loyal Tavern, Lucky’s Burger and Brew, Marlow’s Tavern, Monterrey Roswell, Noca Eatery & Bar, Osteria Mattone, Peach & the Porkchop, Pinkies Up Beer and Wine, Pure Taqueria Roswell, Rock N Taco, Roswell Provisions, Scooter’s Coffee, Shanghai, Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill, Sublime Tree, Table & Main, Taqueria Tsunami, The Mill Kitchen & Bar, The Whiskey Project, Variant Brewing Company, VAS Kouzina, VG bistro + bar, Vin 25, and Zest Restaurant.

The full list of participating restaurants, drinks, descriptions and photos can be found at SummerSippin.com and on the Summer Sippin’ App, which is available in both Google Play and Apple App stores.

MISSION + MARKET LAUNCHES ASIAN POP, A POP-UP TAKEOUT EXPERIENCE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/24/20

Now Available for Lunch + Dinner Monday Through Saturday

For Atlantans, Buckhead-based Mission + Market has become a go-to favorite since its inception in Spring 2018. Now, Atlanta mainstay and Executive Chef Ian Winslade is giving patrons more to savor with a “To Go” pop-up, called Asian POP, only offered through delivery and takeout.

Specializing in comforting Asian food featuring fresh flavors with Chinese and Thai influences, the budget-friendly Asian pop-up will be offered over the next couple of months with menu items ranging from $3-$15. The Asian POP menu is limited but packed full of flavor. Menu items include Honey Garlic Chicken with snow peas, carrots and scallions; Teriyaki Beef Tenderloin with mixed vegetables; Hanoi-Style Seared Salmon with yellow Thai Curry peanut sauce; Jumbo Lump Crab Curry with bean sprouts, vegetables, and rice noodles; Sesame Pot Stickers with chicken and citrus soy sauce; Crunchy Lettuces with shredded carrots and spicy peanut dressing; and more.

Winslade, who is also a partner in Mission + Market, is excited to launch a pop-up inside the restaurant and experiment, recipe test, and explore his favorite cuisines and flavor profiles while also doing market research. “Before COVID hit, we were looking at opening new concepts and actively reviewing locations for future projects. While those ideas have been put on hold temporarily, this is a moment in time where all rules are off. Right now, we have the perfect opportunity to innovate and do things differently while navigating COVID curveballs. I’m passionate about this cuisine and these flavor profiles, as they always have provided comfort to me…and who doesn’t need a little comfort right now.”

Asian POP by Mission + Market photography, full menu, and interviews with Executive Chef Ian Winslade are available.

WHAT:
Asian POP by Mission + Market is now open and operating via delivery and takeout only.

HOW:
Orders can be placed three ways:
1. Order by calling Mission + Market at 404-948-2927.
2. Order through Mission + Market’s website.
3. Order via third party delivery, including Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash.

WHEN:
Monday – Thursday: 11:30am – 8:30pm | Friday: 11:30am – 9:00pm | Saturday: 4:00pm – 9:00pm

WHERE:
3550 Lenox Road NE
Suite 550
Atlanta, GA 30326

WEBSITE:
www.missionandmarketatl.com OR www.instagram.com/asianpopbymm

Featured photo by Hayley Langholtz

The Mill Kitchen & Bar

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/20/20

With views of the Roswell Town Square, The Mill Kitchen & Bar has a wraparound patio with rustic drop lights, bright patio umbrellas, and the fireplace centerpiece. The moment you arrive and greeted with beautiful stonework, rustic touches, and colorful flowers; you know you’re in for a treat. From southern staples to steak to expansive light bite menu, there’s a hint of something for everyone. They’re right it’s really southern fare with an upscale twist. Let’s take a walk around their menu, shall we?

You know how they say the bread indicates the caliber of the meal? Here are The Mill Kitchen & Bar you can judge them by their Pimento Cheese Fritters. We had several starters on our Mill journey like the best little Pimento Cheese Fritters ever, an amazing charcuterie board with mix and match ingredients, and a tasty Tuna Tataki. Starting with our favorite little bite of the night were the Pimento Cheese Fritters, we can’t say enough good things about these decadent treats. From the sharpness of the perfectly blended pimento cheese to the crisp of the breading to the bacon jam that adorned it’s top, it’s one flavor sensation. It’s rich and creamy with the right amount of tart, crisp, and meatiness.  Stuff dreams are made of if you ask us! Pivoting to something healthy was the Tuna Tataki, which was tender tuna, sweet and spicy watermelon Pico, and crisp wonton. This gorgeously plated and colorful dish is a looker. With the slight spice of the peppers and black pepper on the fish mixed with the sweet of the watermelon, it’s a nicely balanced dish. The savory of the soy with the perfectly seared fish plus the crunchiness of the wonton are best enjoyed mixed together and every ingredient in each bite. So good.

John’s favorite was the Charcuterie board that is one of the best for mix and match loaded boards that will leave you full. This board boasts smoked salmon that smoked in house, ham pate, pickled vegetables, pesto, mustard, rustic bread, cheese, sausage, and so many more little things! It’s GINORMOUS and we seriously loved that you could put so many unique and fun flavors together. For example, we took the smoked salmon and combined it with the goat cheese and bread to make what we’d like to call an almost lox bagel. It was creamy, smoky, and crisp. Then, the waitress, Liza, mentioned you could even make your own Bahn Mi bread with it. She was right! We combined the pickled carrots, ham pate, cucumber and onion salad, pesto, and mustard and piled it on the bread. WOW! It’s salty, sweet, meaty, sharp, and crispy. Everything we love in our Bahn Mi. Plus, they have traditional smoked cheddar, meats like the Andouille that you can combine with any of the above ingredients. Find your own favorite taste! What would you try from this LOADED board?

For our entrée we tried the Grilled Lamb Loin, which if you pick out of the dish and try alone, is a dynamic piece of meat with the right amount of char and cooked at that perfect medium temperature. It falls right off that bone! The loin is atop fluffy fried Jasmine rice that was seasoned well with Greek spices and surrounded in a fantastic tzatziki sauce that is creamy, dreamy balanced. The right amount of sauce, rice, peas, ham, and grilled cheese, and a bite of that amazing lamb, you got a flavorful mouth full. Fun fact about the Halloumi cheese is that it doesn’t melt. We loved that it gave a burst of mild creaminess. We even ate the leftovers the next day and it was still so tender that it fell off the bone! Insert heart emoji here.

What’s a meal without something to keep you cool? Let’s not forget that The Mill Kitchen and Bar has a wonderful cocktail and drink menu for all tastes. We tried the Strawberry Gin Smash and what a great balance they have on the sweetness of the strawberry and the earthiness of the gin. You might think it’s too sweet, but it isn’t, it’s just the right of refreshing, cool, sweet, and earth. Pineapple Dreams was Liz’s favorite was the culmination of vodka and pineapple perfectly mixed and set atop cherry juice. It’s a beautiful little number with yellow on top transitioning into red on the bottom. Drinks like a tiki cocktail, finishes sweet. Tip: make sure to stir it all together. Ahhhmazing.

As we left the patio, the temperature had cooled, and the night sky was getting a little darker. We can’t wait to try even more entrees and shareable plates, as The Mill Kitchen and Bar has an extensively delicious menu, like the Short Rib or the Red Snapper, maybe even the Blackened Brie. Of this culinary journey, what would you want to try most?

ATLANTA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL REIMAGINED 2020

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/19/20

ATLANTA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL IS REIMAGINED WITH
10 DAYS OF DIGITAL SEMINARS & SELECT SOCIALLY DISTANCED CHEF EXPERIENCES WITH
PROCEEDS BENEFITING ATLANTA’S RESTAURANT COMMUNITY

Tickets on Sale Now.

In light of COVID-19 and in an effort to give back to the restaurant community its celebrated for the past 10 years, the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival (AF&WF) will commence with a series of digital seminars and select socially distanced meals, starting Thursday, September 10 and continuing through Saturday, September 19. Honoring the rich tradition of southern sustenance, this year’s event will forgo the festival and instead present 13 digital seminars, called AF&WF At Home Edition Presented by Publix, as well as 11 dinners, two lunches and one brunch, all with limited, socially distanced seating. One hundred percent (100%) of ticket sales from the digital seminars will benefit the talent and 70% of ticket sales from the chef experiences will go back to the restaurants. “COVID-19 has had a life-altering impact on the restaurant community that has helped build this festival to internationally known status over the last 10 years,” said Brett Friedman, CEO of Agency 21 Consulting. “We are leveraging our platform to drive business and revenue back to them as a show of solidarity for our partners and friends.”

Late last year, Agency 21 Consulting was brought on to execute and manage AF&WF in conjunction with founder, Elizabeth Feichter with the intention of making this year’s 10th anniversary celebration the best yet. The pandemic changed everything, but not the spirit southern hospitality. The AF&WF will stay true to its origins, offering a celebration of the south. In its limited capacity, the festival is welcoming some amazing new talent this year, including 2020 James Beard Foundation Semifinalist Ron Hsu (GA) and James Kerwin (TN). Returning founding talent, who have been instrumental longstanding supporters of the festival, includes Deborah VanTrece (GA), John Castelluci (GA), 2019 James Beard Award Semifinalists including Misti Norris (TX), and Erik Bruner-Yang (DC).

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival prides itself on having an extensive weekend of programming and events where guests can eat, drink and explore the South’s rich culinary traditions from the best talent in the Southeast. Below are a select few of the salivating offerings attendees can choose from in 2020 on sale now.

AF&WF At Home Edition Presented by Publix

Exploring the rich bounty of cuisine throughout the South, this series of virtual seminars has something for every taste, from a pie masterclass with Pie Bar’s Lauren Bolden to a seafood couvillion with crab fat rice from Isaac Toups and curry in a hurry from Miami culinary sensation, Timon Balloo. For a list of digital seminars, visit www.atlfoodandwinefestival.com/athome

Dinners, Lunches & Brunch

Whether it’s an intimate themed dinner or an extravagant bash, Atlanta Food & Wine Festival knows how to celebrate in true Southern style – and demonstrate the finer elements of Southern hospitality. Indulge in one-of-a-kind dining experiences including a special collaboration dinner with Chef Jeb Aldrich, Chef Matt Weinstein and Chef Claudia Martinez at Tiny Lou’s, An Evening in Provence dinner with AIX’s Nick Leahy or The Pasta & Vinyl Experience presented by Chef Craig Richards at Lyla Lilah. Tickets for chef experiences range from $95 to $200 and $10 for the seminars. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.atlfoodandwinefestival.com.

Offer is fulfilled by Atlanta Food & Wine Festival subject to availability and may be changed or revoked at any time.

BUCKHEAD VILLAGE TO HOST SUMMER SIDEWALK SHOP & STROLL WEEKEND OF AUGUST 28-30

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/19/20

Friday Evening Kickoff with Gather/Chill: A Founder Series with Local Fashion Designer Abbey Glass

 

Saturday & Sunday to Feature Outdoor, Open-Air Shopping, Live Music, Complimentary Beverages & HERMARKET®️ Pop-Up Showcasing Woman-Owned Indie Brands

 

Buckhead Village, the dynamic community destination that blends diverse shopping and culinary experiences with welcoming communal spaces, bold design and interactive art installations, will host a series of outdoor happenings the weekend of August 28-30, including:

 

  • Gather/Chill: A Founder Series with Abbey Glass – Kicking off the weekend on Friday, August 28, Buckhead Village will host the first Gather/Chill: A Founders Series with local fashion designer and Atlanta native Abbey Glass. Beginning at 6pm, guests can gather at The Veranda for an evening of fashion discussion and shopping with Abbey Glass, the founder behind the eponymous Atlanta-based womenswear brand offering classic, refined clothing designed to stand the test of time and trend. The brand has a flagship boutique located at Buckhead Village and collections available in 70 other specialty retailers across the country. During the discussion moderated by lifestyle blogger and marketing strategist Safiyyah O’Quinn, Abbey will cover her journey as a founder and fashion designer based in Atlanta. Attendees are strongly encouraged to RSVP here in advance of the event, and to provide a safe environment, masks will be required and social distancing measures will be in place.

 

  • Summer Sidewalk Shop & Stroll – On Saturday, August 29 from 11am-6pm and Sunday, August 30 from noon-6pm, the Summer Sidewalk Shop & Stroll will welcome guests to enjoy open-air shopping & dining. Participating retailers include Amorino Gelato, Abbey Glass, alice + olivia, Bella Cucina, Billy Reid, Bonobos, Intermix, Kimberly McDonald, Shake Shack, Theory, TOD’s and more, and visitors can also enjoy complimentary coffee and live music at The Veranda, a newly debuted 1960-square-foot covered space bringing the outdoors in with lush greenery, soaring ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling screens. Also on Saturday and Sunday, HERMARKET®️, a community and marketplace for woman-owned indie brands and the women who love them, will be popping up on Buckhead Avenue and feature products for purchase. Founded by Jazlin Pitts and Kia Perry, HERMARKET also organizes virtual experiences and brand partnerships to provide a platform where women can discover and support these brands while connecting with each other.

PARK TAVERN PRESENTS THE ROUND TWO SELTZER FEST

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/17/20

Featuring Countless Hard Seltzers, Delicious Food, Live Music and More!

Saturday, August 29, 2020 From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Celebrating the most sought after bubbly drinks at the first Seltzer Fest was so much fun, Park Tavern is ending the summer with one more Saturday of Sippling Spiked Seltzers at the Seltzer Fest Round Two on August 29, 2020 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Imbibers are invited to sip their way through samples of countless icy seltzers while overlooking Piedmont Park and swaying to the music of Davis & The Love. Festival goers can pair their fizzy refreshments with Park Tavern’s full Patio Menu including a wide range of dips, wings, sandwiches, tacos, baskets and burgers.

Early Bird pricing for General Admission entrance is $15.00 for the first 50 ticket buyers and will increase to $30. General Admission includes all-you-can-taste samples. Early Bird pricing for VIP Admission for the first 50 ticket buyers is $30 and will increase to $50. The VIP experience grants early access to attendees at 12 p.m. to an exclusive VIP area, all-you-can-taste samples, upscale seating and a lounge area, access to premium indoor restrooms, private bars, and entertainment. Rain or shine, Park Tavern’s Round 2 Seltzer Fest is for ages 21 and up. Park Tavern’s top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic is to keep guests and staff healthy and will be following the CDC-issued guidelines related to food service as well as implemented precautions to keep the venue as safe as possible. For more information on COVID-19 Safety Protocol or to purchase tickets visit, www.parktavern.com.

THERE ON FIFTH: A MIRACLE ON FIFTH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/16/20

Among the concrete, skyscrapers, and hustle and bustle of the vibrant midtown city-life is a fantastic new spot, There on Fifth, the second There restaurant in Atlanta. It’s exactly what that area needs, and could we boast, a miracle? Something for happy hour after work or to take your biggest client, There on Fifth is an injection in the arm for the restaurant scene in that part of midtown that needs more upscale options, while not feeling pretentious. The second you taste Smallwood’s food you know why this place will be a hit with just about everyone, though. Offerings at There on Fifth include Indian-inspired beets, a seriously divine pork rillettes, dynamite hanger steak, and some of the best in-bone chicken in the city. Let’s sit down and share a meal together, shall we?

We tried a few of the shareable plates including the Roasted Local Beets and Pork Rillettes. It doesn’t get more local than these local beets, which were picked directly from Bill Brown, the owner’s garden. You can tell how fresh they are, perfectly ripe and tender. We love what Smallwood did with the Indian-inspired flavors like the spice of the Vadouvan to the creaminess of the Labneh.  It’s bright, fresh, earthy, creamy, and one of the best beet dishes imaginable because it has so many dynamic flavors that come together in one dish. We’re in love.

Moving from there we tried the Pork Rillettes, which Smallwood said was almost like an upscale charcuterie plate, and we can’t agree more. Have you ever had a pork pate perfectly blended and then combined with bacon and duck fat? I know your mind is being blown right now, but it’s so good you could get a spoon and just dig in. There is a variety of pairings you can make on this plate, like combining the pate with the raspberry jam on toast. Imagine freshly made raspberry jam with a perfect sweetness mixed with the savory and richness of the pate. Two things you didn’t know you could combine make one of the best little bites! Also included on this plate is pork rinds, so you can dip pork into pork. Isn’t that fun? Finally, don’t get us started on the pickled ramps. Did you know they only have a few weeks to even be harvested? You must get in and get them or you miss out. What’s amazing about this little veggie is that it’s on part onion but finishes like garlic. We’d recommend combining that with the pork pate and it adds an element of earthiness, bitter and tartness that elevates the pate itself. This is a must try dish for anyone that loves to mix and match flavors.

To say steak is a staple is probably an accurate account of almost every upscale place around town. It’s a must have on any menu because there’s always someone who loves their meat and potatoes, AMIRIGHT? What if we said we can make it fun, too? The Hanger Steak at There on Fifth is just that! Perfectly cooked steak (get it medium!) that’s rich and meaty slathered with a fantastic, creamy and rich sauce Choron. This grown up, but playful dish sits atop flat potatoes, almost like hashbrowns. Take all the ingredients and some of the vegetables and mix it all up, that’s your best bite. It’s meaty, rich, tangy, sweet, savory, earthy, and your taste buds will be happy.

The second you put the Springer Mountain Cassoluet in your mouth, you know this is going to have a good night. Miracles happen every day, right? But this one we didn’t expect. You see chicken on the menu, and you say to yourself, “that’s the safe dish.” Not this time, this is probably the best bone-in chicken dish in Atlanta. Bear with us here, we’re going to prove it. Imagine chicken perfectly brined and tender that literally will not stay on the bone, then flash fried and crispy, salty perfection. Combine this with the white beans, pork, and a myriad of comfort food vegetables beneath, it almost came off a little like the best stuffing you ever put in your mouth. Yes, like at Thanksgiving. Something you need to know about me (Liz) is that there are two things I love: white beans and stuffing. Put them together and literally my eyes rolled in the back of my head and I told John, “I can’t stop eating this.” We’d recommend mixing the chicken and all the goodness beneath into one bite, plus you have to get a little bit of that flash fried skin. Are you ready to try it? We’ll definitely be getting it again.

Beyond the fantastic fare, make sure you sample a few of their cocktails or grab a dessert! Our favorite was the Bonfire on the Beach. This is a refreshing, sweet, and tart whiskey cocktail with lemon, honey, and ginger beer.  Like the name says, it reminds us of the beach up front with the sweetness of the ginger and honey, finishing with a little bit of fire of the tart lemon and warming whiskey. We also enjoyed the French 75. It was cooling and mellow and who doesn’t like gin and champagne together? One of the BEST. Finally, have your drink and eat it too with the Monday Night Brownie. Fudgy and rich chocolate up front, with the little bit of bitterness from the Drafty Kilt and the slight salt makes this a well-rounded delectable bite that’s a perfect way to end the night. Share? No, thanks.

The sun is hiding behind the large building to the west, and the wind picks up and makes the patio an enjoyable spot to sit and chat. We talked to Bill Brown who owns the restaurant for a good 15-20 minutes about all things There, life, and the industry. Bill knows so much about restaurants and it’s always a delight to chat and share a drink with him. Cheers, Bill. You have a winner here!

TOP ATLANTA OTP AND HIDDEN GEM PATIOS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/9/20

One thing that Atl-iens can all agree on is that Atlanta is an exceptionally large city, there’s so much to get into and do here, plus the patio scene has exploded beyond the ones we’ve highlighted in the city. So, we went on another Adventures in Patio, this time to highlight Hidden Gems and OTP patios in areas around Atlanta so no matter what neighborhood you live in, there’s one near you to try. Are you ready to take a tour of our fair city?

Chiringa

Happiness is a day at the beach, and we all need a little beach right now. That’s what you’ll get at Chiringa in Alpharetta; it’s like walking into a surfside bar with a beautiful expansive patio! From the sweetness of perfect plantains, to healthy blackened fish tacos, to meaty wings, flavorful bowls, and the perfect beach drink, Chiringa has serious eats, warm beach vibes, and breezy cocktails. Can you smell the salt in the air and a warm ocean breeze? We can too.

When you get to you the fly up window, we’d recommend their Froze, which is one of the best in the city. Plus, if you’re hungry, you should stop by on Wednesday for 75 cent wings, which are Caribbean inspired with spicy jerk and sweet on the back, you won’t forget these! And please don’t forget to order a side of plantains. They’re sweet, crisp on the outside in spots, and have the perfect salt and pepper dusting. Finally, meal-wise their Core 57 bowl is healthy and hearty decked out in avocado, beans, rice, and plantains. Pro tip: douse it in the cilantro sauce and mix away.

Chiringa is located in Alpharetta City Center, 34 South Main St. Alpharetta, GA 30009. http://chiringa.com/

Jekyll Brewing City Center

Through the thick forest of palm trees, you come upon a tree that’s been uprooted and the limbs are twisted into the soft sand below your feet. There are small black bugs scurrying along the waterline where the gentle waves are afraid to come up any further. When you look down the surf line, you notice that there are at least 50 other trees in contorted formations, one reaches to the sky like a skyscraper, the other one next to it fans out into what almost looks like a peacock. Have you been transported to a Martian moonscape? You’d think so, but, no, you’re in the most beautifully unique place on earth, Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island on the Georgia coastline.  This is the beach vibe that you get when you go to Jekyll Brewing in Alpharetta City Center. The rooftop deck and bar is one-of-a-kind with an airstream in the middle! Up there you can grab a drink right from the window or sit along it’s side.

Our two-part experience brought us unique food and beer options inspired by the island with an array of tasty treats. We’d recommend of the bites: fresh fried pork rinds that literally come still popping to the table with homemade hot sauce, their Mike’s wings which were so much chicken, plus they have a fun take on a charcuterie plate! Meal wise, go light with their Lite bowl topped with salmon and loaded with sweet potato and avocado! Yum! Jekyll has a ton of beer options; John loves the Southern Juice and I’d recommend the Redneck Christmas Stout. Not a beer drinker? Opt for the Hardly Seltzer in multiple flavors, which is perfect for hanging out at the airstream!

Jekyll Brewing City Center is Jekyll Brewing’s second location, 15 Academy Street, Ste. 1E Alpharetta, GA 30000. https://www.jekyllbrewing.com/

Live! At the Battery and Sports and Social

The pitcher comes up to the mound and the crowd grows silent in anticipation. Here’s the pitch! The ball sails through the air and with the crack of the bat, the ball is going, going, GONE. Next to Truist Park, Home of the Braves, Live! At The Battery knocks it out of the park with margarita pitcher specials, fun cocktails, and an array of bites for any sports or social occasion. Really, the minute you walk up to the Battery, you feel the electricity that the stadium brings and being literally a stone’s throw from Truist Park, it’s one amazing patio and sports enthusiast space. One of the best patios outside the perimeter, it is huge and has everything from game watching, live music, DJs, brunch, and everything in between. It’s a happening, fun place.

Go for the game, a night out, or brunch. We’d highly recommend the brunch with boozy cereal that’s a mix of kahlua, almond milk, and cereal! Make sure to grab their simple, yet amazing avocado toast called The Basic B*tch, which is just avocado, egg, bread, and pico, but perfectly seasoned. If you opt for game night or a quick bite with your honey, make sure to load up on delicious meatballs and crispy fried wings, then sip on one of their amazing margarita pitcher specials. Make a whole day of it!

Live! At the Battery complex is located literally across from Truist Park, 825 Battery Ave SE. Suite 600. Atlanta, GA 30339. https://liveatthebatteryatlanta.com/

Ph’East

Being a hot day in Summer, we opted for the little bit of shade on a patio around the corner from Truist Park. Far to our right, there’s a guy with his guitar singing the greatest 80s and 90s rock and pop hits. As he sings, people tap their toes, sip on bowls, dig into poke, and try new beers and cocktails at the recently opened Ph’East. Just outside Atlanta in the Battery complex, Ph’East has several hawker stalls that includes our new friends at Poke Burri and Lifting Noodles Ramen, as well as the Tap at Ph’East. We sipped, slurped, and noshed our way to an international journey outside American, right from Atlanta. These days, we could all use a little vacation, so join us on a little trip to Asian flavor and tiki islands. Do you have your passport?

Upon arrival, stop by Taps at Ph’East to sample their large array of craft beer from IPA to Stout, our recommendation would be the Scorpion Cocktail, which is a bright and balanced tiki-inspired cocktail. They have tiki cocktail specials every Tuesday for Tiki Tuesday! Then, head over to Poke Burri for their fantastic Spicy Tuna Nachos, spicy, crunchy, and sweet or the unique sushi donut. It’s a fun way to eat your sushi with salmon, avocado and sriracha on the side for a little heat. Save room for Lifting Noodles Ramen and build your own ramen bowl with earthy kale noodles and an amazing pork broth. It’s delectable! Talk about a Ph’East.

Ph’East is located in The Battery Atlanta at 925 Battery Avenue, Suite 1100. Atlanta, GA. https://pheastatl.com/

Cru Food & Wine Bar

On a busy corner at The Battery Atlanta, there’s a wine oasis dotted with purple umbrellas, marble tabletops, warm vibes, and surrounded by several colors of delicate flowers and greenery. Cru Food & Wine Bar at the Battery Atlanta has mastered the art of superb wine procurement from magnificent champagne and Smell the Roses flights to a wide variety of dishes that complement the wine on their menu. We can’t think of anything better to pair your favorite vino with than a solid charcuterie or small plate, and even a succulent filet mignon. Wine not?

Start your wine journey with one of their many flights and pair it with one of their many shareable plates. We’d recommend the Smell the Rose flight with the Charcuterie board: Premiere Cru that has tons of meats and go well with the crispness of the wine. Of the small plates, we enjoyed the goat cheese beignets the most because they were a surprising sweet treat to go with a perfectly paired Cuvee Brut Champagne. Let’s not forget the meatballs or better yet, the delicious steak that you can pair with your favorite vino. Wine Oasis is right.

Cru Food & Wine Bar is located at 915 Battery Ave, Atlanta, GA. https://cruwinebar.com/locations/atlanta-georgia-the-battery/

Ocean & Acre

Land and Sea come together in perfect harmony up at Ocean & Acre in the Halcyon Forsyth complex! The second you step onto their patio, you find you’re transported to a seaside village by the ocean, with tropical beach vibes, and even a fireplace made of shells to warm you up on the cool Spring or Fall nights. Paired with the ocean vibes, Ocean & Acre has an enormous seafood, oyster, and shellfish menu that screams salty air and rolling waves. Plus, we find that what really sets them apart is the innovative and truly unique menu offerings like wagyu beef carpaccio, savory pork chops, tartar, hush puppies, and more. Like we said, perfect harmony!

Nothing says patio like tuna tartare with crisp nachos; it’s the perfect combo of avocado and tuna, plus the garlic aioli really elevated the bite. You won’t want to share. We know you’re feeling thirsty sitting outside so we’d recommend the Night Herder. It may be a bourbon cocktail, but it drinks light, fresh, and lemony. It’s perfect with the lightness of the tuna and refreshing in the heat. You can also get an order of hush puppies to share, but these aren’t just fried balls of dough, no! They’re light and crisp with a fantastic sauce that has a great balance of flavors: earthy, slightly spicy, creamy, and peppery. Thinking about going during brunch? They have a fantastic dutch pancake, breakfast polenta bowl, and even a solid steak and eggs. Staying for dinner? Why not try the wagyu beef carpaccio or the stellar pork chop.  You could stay all day on that patio!

Ocean & Acre is located in the Halcyon Forsyth complex, 6290 Halcyon Way, Suite 620, Alpharetta, Ga  30005. https://oceanandacre.com/

Barleygarden Kitchen & Craft Beer

So Beervana, DOES exist. Located on the end of the Avalon complex, with a large patio and rooftop bar, Barleygarden Kitchen and Bar has a legitimate stake in Beervana, but we hope you stay for the food because you’ll be in for a real treat. Once you’re at Barleygarden, sit yourself upstairs in the shade, watch the bustle of the people below and passersby, while sipping on a wide beer variety or a specialty cocktail. Stay hungry for a light bite or sandwich. This one was a heady adventure on a fun OTP patio. Grab a drink and stay a while.

We’d recommend checking out their extensive local, regional, and national beer menu where you can get everything from sours to stouts. They’re owned by Hop City, so they KNOW their beer and will even suggest a beer pairing with your food if you ask nicely. Plus, they have a fun cocktail menu with our favorite cocktail we tried: Never Say Die. On top of that, you can’t really go wrong with Barleygarden’s eats either, we’d recommendation the fried cauliflower, which was like having cheesy, fried goodness. If you’re looking for something lighter go with the brussels sprouts. A good, nutty, earthy, and cheesy little bite! If sandwiches are your thing, please get the Butcher’s Bun. It’s cheesy, creamy, garlicy, meaty perfection on a bun.  Pair with your favorite craft beer!

Barleygarden is located in the Avalon complex, 900 Avalon Blvd, Alpharetta, GA 30009. https://www.barleygardenkitchen.com/avalon

Varuni Napoli

Tucked behind Varuni Napoli’s dining room sits a hidden garden patio with a leafy tree canopy, tons of shade, comfy couches, and a Koi pond. It’s a small oasis in the heart of the busy city that’s perfect for a date night or even after dinner drinks and dessert. Sitting on the patio, we sipped on a white sangria while dining on delicious pizza and being pampered with the delightful desserts. It was the perfect early Saturday dinner. We didn’t even know they had a patio, so this was a delightful surprise to sit back there and just enjoy a peaceful spot.  Just imagine the twinkle lights come on and you’re enjoying some vino with your honey. That’s the feeling you get from this hidden gem.

When you go to Varuni Napoli you have to opt for a pizza and we’d recommend the amazing Bastardo Pizza! What makes this pizza is the Nduja sauce, a spicy blend of Calabrian chili, oil, and mixed with group up pepperoni, sausage, pancetta, and dolloped on. It’s spicy, meaty, and perfection in sauce form. Ask for a white sangria to beat the heat both in the Bastardo’s sauce and sitting on the canopied patio. Save room for dessert because they have a dynamite tiramisu. Rich and boozy with fluffly lady fingers and the bitterness of the dark chocolate. Delicimo. We did learn recently how much thought that Luca puts into his ingredients and his knowledge of Italian specialty and premium items like tomatoes, his procured dough items, and even timing of the pizza oven are down to a science. We wanted to send him a shout out how impressed we are with his love of making the perfect pizza! Brava!

Varuni Napoli is located in Midtown, 1540 Monroe Drive, NE, Atlanta, Ga 30324. https://www.varuni.us/midtown/

Slow Pour Brewing

Upon entering Slow Pour Brewing in the quaint downtown Lawrenceville, you immediately are transported to a slower time where rocking chairs and lazy rivers were all the rage. It reminded us of sitting in a garden near my grandmother’s house in rural Nashville. You’ve got your vegetable and herb garden to the right and the twinkle lights hang above, lush landscaping, tons of patio furniture that expands for what seems for days. Expansive and beautiful, we wish we had this patio closer to home. It’s one of the best brewery patios in Atlanta. Pro tip: Stay for the sunset, it’s spectacular with the twinkle lights! With the sun setting on us, we soaked in the last moments of the light.

Of the beer, we really enjoyed the Spirit of the Moment Stout, that was deep and rich, slightly boozy 12.8% with chocolate notes. This was Liz’s favorite. John’s favorite was the Nostalgia IPA because he loved the balance of drinkability and slight hop. We also enjoyed the lighter lager and all-day drinker, Commodore James. Plus, the Reap and Sow Saison was more on the sour side, but the right amount of spice. You can’t go wrong with any of their beers or their ambiance. Cheers.

Slow Pour is located near downtown Lawrenceville, 407 N Clayton St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046. https://slowpourbrewing.com/

The Mill Kitchen and Bar

With views of the Roswell Town Square, The Mill Kitchen & Bar has a wraparound patio with rustic drop lights, bright patio umbrellas, and the fireplace centerpiece. The moment you arrive and greeted with beautiful stonework, rustic touches, and colorful flowers; you know you’re going to enjoy hanging out on this patio. From southern staples to steak to expansive light bite menu, there’s a hint of something for everyone. They’re right it’s really southern fare with a upscale twist. You know how they say the bread indicates the caliber of the meal? The patio here is just a precursor to amazing food.

We’d recommend everything here, you heard us, everything. We were particularly impressed with the pimento cheese fritters, which were crunchy, creamy, and the bacon jam really made it. Have you ever had a charcuterie plate with smoke salmon or Banh Mi ingredients? They have it! You can mix and match so many flavors, one of the best charcuterie boards we’ve ever had. Plus, the Tuna Tataki was fresh and light with a sweet watermelon pico, that ended spicy. On top of that the grilled lamb lion was fantastic with perfectly cooked and season lamb and some of the best tzatziki ever. EVER. Want something light and refreshing to wash it down? Try the Pineapple Dreams. Pineapple on top, sweet cherry on the bottom. Stir. Tiki dreams is more like it.

The Mill Kitchen and Bar is located at 590 Mimosa Blvd, Roswell, GA 30075. https://www.themillkitchenandbar.com/